Intelligent laser cutting system and cooperative control method

Abstract

The invention relates to an intelligent laser cutting system and a cooperative control method in the field of high-end intelligent laser processing equipment manufacturing. The system comprises a machine tool body, cutting equipment, a flexible tool and an operating system. The cutting equipment is assembled at the moving end of the Z shaft through the A shaft and the B shaft; the flexible tool is borne on a Y-axis workbench and comprises a base, a first supporting assembly and a second supporting assembly. The operation system can control the machine tool body to use the cutting equipment to cut the workpiece according to the set track and the set angle according to the workpiece type, and the operation system can control the machine tool body to adjust the distance between the cutting equipment and the workpiece in real time. According to the device, positioning and cutting work of two-dimensional / three-dimensional ultra-large and ultra-thick workpieces with complex surfaces can be rapidly completed, the cutting efficiency, the cutting quality and the cutting precision are improved, the device can be suitable for machining of different types of large-breadth and large-thickness workpieces such as flat workpieces and curved-surface workpieces at the same time, and various problems existing in a traditional machining mode are effectively solved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of high-end intelligent laser processing equipment manufacturing, and in particular to an intelligent laser cutting system and a collaborative control method. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, for large-format and thick transparent non-metallic materials (such as acrylic), existing technologies mainly rely on manual loading and cutting. However, this method has the following drawbacks: ① Efficiency and quality bottlenecks: Traditional manual loading and unloading is labor-intensive, manual cutting causes high stress and cracking, and cutting ultra-large and ultra-thick acrylic workpieces takes as long as 60-80 minutes; ② Insufficient precision: Clamping small three-dimensional curved parts relies on manual fine-tuning, resulting in poor repeatability and positioning accuracy. Each cut requires about 30 minutes to find the cutting position; ③ Environmental defects of existing equipment: The cutting process is not sealed, and the generated exhaust gas is not effectively treated; ④ Poor compatibility: Planar workpieces and three-dimensional workpieces need to be processed by separate equipment.

[0003] Therefore, this invention is proposed. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The main objective of this invention is to provide an intelligent laser cutting system and a collaborative control method, which aims to solve at least one of the above-mentioned technical problems.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, this invention proposes an intelligent laser cutting system, comprising a machine tool body, a cutting device, a flexible fixture, and an operating system. The machine tool body is equipped with an X-axis, a Y-axis, a Z-axis, an A-axis, and a B-axis, with the Z-axis slidably mounted on a moving component of the X-axis. The cutting device is mounted on the moving end of the Z-axis via the A-axis and the B-axis. The flexible fixture is supported on a worktable along the Y-axis and includes a base, a first support component for supporting flat workpieces, and a second support component for supporting curved workpieces, all located on top of the base. The X-axis drives the Z-axis to move horizontally, the Y-axis drives the flexible fixture to move vertically, the Z-axis drives the A-axis, the B-axis, and the cutting device to move vertically, the A-axis drives the cutting device to rotate around the X-axis, and the B-axis drives the cutting device to rotate around the Y-axis. The operating system can control the machine tool body to use the cutting device to cut the workpiece according to a set trajectory and angle based on the workpiece type, and the operating system can control the machine tool body to adjust the distance between the cutting device and the workpiece in real time.

[0006] By using the intelligent laser cutting system in this technical solution, a flexible fixture with a first support component and a second support component is designed for large-format and thick flat workpieces and curved workpieces. This invention assembles the cutting equipment and flexible fixture with a machine tool body having X-axis, Y-axis, Z-axis, A-axis and B-axis, and uses an operating system for control. Through modular integration and intelligent control strategies, it integrates a three-dimensional five-axis CNC machine tool and a multi-mode flexible fixture system, which can quickly complete the positioning and cutting of two-dimensional / three-dimensional ultra-large and ultra-thick workpieces with complex shapes, thereby improving cutting efficiency and cutting quality, improving cutting accuracy, and being able to simultaneously adapt to the processing of different types of large-format and thick workpieces such as flat workpieces and curved workpieces, effectively solving many problems existing in traditional processing methods.

[0007] In some embodiments of the present invention, the first support component includes cylinders arranged in an array on the base, the cylinders being arranged vertically with their telescopic ends facing upwards.

[0008] In some embodiments of the present invention, the second support component includes a universal fine-tuning mechanism disposed in the middle of the base and a flexible support mechanism disposed on the base and arranged in an array around the universal fine-tuning mechanism, wherein the height of each of the flexible support mechanisms can be adjusted separately.

[0009] In some embodiments of the present invention, the cutting device includes a carbon dioxide laser, an optical path structure, and a cutting head, wherein the cutting head is mounted on the A-axis and the B-axis, and the carbon dioxide laser is connected to the cutting head via the optical path structure.

[0010] In some embodiments of the present invention, the cutting head includes a cutting head body and a cutting nozzle. The cutting nozzle is magnetically attached to the cutting head body and equipped with a magnetic anti-collision device. When the cutting nozzle collides, the cutting nozzle automatically detaches. At the same time, the magnetic anti-collision device sends a feedback signal to the operating system, which then controls the machine tool body and the cutting equipment to automatically stop running and issue an alarm.

[0011] In some embodiments of the present invention, the cutting head body is equipped with a pressure sensor. When the cutting head body is involved in a collision, the pressure sensor can send a feedback signal to the operating system when it reaches a certain value. The operating system then controls the machine tool body and the cutting equipment to automatically stop running and issue an alarm.

[0012] In some embodiments of the present invention, the cutting device is equipped with a distance sensor for pointing to the cutting position. The distance sensor is used to provide real-time feedback on the distance between the cutting device and the workpiece surface when the intelligent laser cutting system is running the processing program. The operating system adjusts the distance between the cutting device and the workpiece in real time based on the distance data fed back by the cutting device.

[0013] In some embodiments of the present invention, the intelligent laser cutting system further includes an automated guided vehicle, the top of which is formed with a liftable support platform for engaging with the bottom of the flexible tooling.

[0014] In some embodiments of the present invention, the intelligent laser cutting system further includes a protective cover and a fume filtration system, wherein the machine tool body is disposed inside the protective cover, and the fume filtration system is connected to the protective cover.

[0015] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention also proposes a collaborative control method for the aforementioned intelligent laser cutting system, comprising the following steps: selecting a first support component to clamp a flat workpiece or selecting a second support component to clamp a curved workpiece according to the workpiece model; moving the flexible fixture along with the workpiece thereon to the Y-axis worktable of the machine tool body; controlling the machine tool body to use the cutting equipment to cut the workpiece according to a set trajectory and a set angle through the operating system, and controlling the machine tool body to adjust the distance between the cutting equipment and the workpiece in real time until the cutting of the workpiece is completed. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Various other advantages and benefits will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the following detailed description of preferred embodiments. The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this application. Furthermore, the same reference numerals denote the same parts throughout the drawings. In the drawings: Figure 1 This is an overall structural diagram of the intelligent laser cutting system of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 2 This is a structural diagram illustrating the main body of the machine tool according to the present invention.

[0018] Figure 3 This is a structural diagram of the flexible tooling of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 4 This is a partially enlarged view of the flexible tooling of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the cutting head of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the optical path of the present invention. Figure 1 .

[0022] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the optical path of the present invention. Figure 2 .

[0023] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the optical path of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 9 This is a structural diagram of the AGV of the present invention.

[0025] The labels in the attached diagram are as follows: 1. Machine tool body; 101. X-axis; 102. Y-axis; 103. Z-axis; 2. Carbon dioxide laser; 3. Cutting head; 31. Cutting head body; 32. Cutting nozzle; 4. Fan; 5. Water spray UV photo-oxidation machine; 6. Activated carbon filter; 7. Beam expander; 8. First total reflection mirror; 9. Second total reflection mirror; 10. Third total reflection mirror; 11. Fourth total reflection mirror; 12. Flexible protective cover for optical path; 13. Flexible tooling; 131. Base; 14. Cylinder; 15. Flexible support mechanism; 16. Universal fine-tuning mechanism; 17. Automatic guided transport vehicle; 171. Support platform; 18. Operating system; 19. Protective cover; 20. Distance sensor; 21. Chiller; 22. Collimating lens; 23. Focusing lens; 24. Workpiece. Detailed Implementation

[0026] It should be understood that the described embodiments are merely some, not all, of the embodiments in this application. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments in this application without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0027] In the following description, when referring to the accompanying drawings, the same numbers in different drawings denote the same or similar elements unless otherwise indicated. The embodiments described in the following exemplary embodiments do not represent all embodiments consistent with this application. Rather, they are merely examples of apparatuses and methods consistent with some aspects of this application as detailed in the appended claims.

[0028] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "first," "second," etc., are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances. Furthermore, in the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, "multiple" refers to two or more. "And / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, or B existing alone. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects are in an "or" relationship.

[0029] For the processing of large-format and thick transparent non-metallic materials such as acrylic, current technology mainly relies on manual loading and cutting. Traditional manual loading and unloading is labor-intensive, and the high cutting stress makes it prone to cracking. For ultra-large and ultra-thick acrylic workpieces, such as those 4000mm long, 3000mm wide, and more than 40mm thick, the cutting time can be as long as 60-80 minutes, and the manual cutting accuracy is low. For three-dimensional curved parts, clamping depends on manual adjustment, resulting in poor repeatability and positioning accuracy. Each cut requires about 30 minutes to position and align the cutting position. The cutting process of existing small equipment is not sealed, and the generated exhaust gas is not effectively treated. At the same time, planar workpieces and three-dimensional workpieces need to be processed by separate equipment, resulting in poor equipment compatibility.

[0030] Therefore, this invention integrates a three-dimensional five-axis CNC machine tool, AGV automatic loading and unloading, intelligent dust removal and multi-mode tooling system through modular integration and intelligent control strategy. It can quickly complete the positioning and cutting of two-dimensional / three-dimensional workpieces. It creatively proposes a highly efficient and flexible laser cutting solution for a variety of ultra-large and ultra-thick complex surface workpieces, effectively solving a variety of problems existing in traditional processing methods.

[0031] This application discloses an intelligent laser cutting system. For example... Figures 1-4 As shown, the intelligent laser cutting system includes a machine tool body 1, cutting equipment, flexible tooling 13, and operating system 18.

[0032] The machine tool body 1 is equipped with an X-axis 101, a Y-axis 102, a Z-axis 103, an A-axis, and a B-axis. The Z-axis 103 is slidably mounted on the moving part of the X-axis 101. The cutting equipment is assembled to the moving end of the Z-axis 103 via the A-axis and B-axis. The flexible fixture 13 is supported on the worktable of the Y-axis 102. The flexible fixture 13 includes a base 131 and a first support component located on the top of the base 131 for supporting flat workpieces and a second support component for supporting curved workpieces.

[0033] X-axis 101 is used to drive Z-axis 103 to move horizontally, Y-axis 102 is used to drive flexible fixture 13 to move vertically, Z-axis 103 is used to drive A-axis, B-axis and cutting equipment to move vertically, A-axis is used to drive cutting equipment to rotate around X-axis 101, and B-axis is used to drive cutting equipment to rotate around Y-axis 102.

[0034] The operating system 18 can control the machine tool body 1 to use the cutting equipment to cut the workpiece according to the set trajectory and set angle based on the workpiece type, and the operating system 18 can control the machine tool body 1 to adjust the distance between the cutting equipment and the workpiece in real time.

[0035] In the present invention, a flexible tooling 13 with a first support component and a second support component is designed for large-format and large-thickness flat workpieces and curved workpieces. By assembling a cutting device and the flexible tooling 13 with a machine tool main body 1 having an X-axis 101, a Y-axis 102, a Z-axis 103, an A-axis, and a B-axis, and controlling it using an operating system 18, through modular integration and intelligent control strategies, a three-dimensional five-axis numerical control machine tool and a multi-mode flexible tooling 13 system are integrated, which can quickly complete the positioning and cutting of two-dimensional / three-dimensional super-large and super-thick workpieces with complex shapes, thereby improving the cutting efficiency and quality, enhancing the cutting accuracy, and being able to adapt to the processing of different types of large-format and large-thickness workpieces such as flat workpieces and curved workpieces at the same time, effectively solving various problems existing in traditional processing methods.

[0036] In some embodiments of the present invention, the X-axis 101, Y-axis 102, and Z-axis 103 of the machine tool main body 1 are all linear motion mechanisms, and the A-axis and B-axis are respectively rotary mechanisms. The X-axis 101, Y-axis 102, Z-axis 103, A-axis, and B-axis of the machine tool main body 1 can achieve coordinated motion under the control of a numerical control system to match workpieces to be cut with different shapes.

[0037] In some embodiments of the present invention, the machine tool main body 1 can be welded from 6 - 22 mm steel plates; the X-axis 101 is a four-rail synchronous drive of 7900 mm × 4, using a customized rack from HIWIN (Hiwin), with a maximum speed of up to 50 m / min and a repeat positioning accuracy of up to 0.05 mm. Additionally, the Y-axis 102 and Z-axis 103 are the same, with a maximum speed of up to 50 m / min and a repeat positioning accuracy of up to 0.05 mm.

[0038] In some embodiments of the present invention, the operating system 18 is the control center of the entire intelligent laser cutting system. Through the operating system 18, a workpiece model can be imported to generate a cutting trajectory in real time, and the cutting trajectory route can be converted into instructions executable by the machine tool main body 1, thereby achieving the complete processing of the workpiece.

[0039] In some embodiments of the present invention, as Figure 3 and Figure 4 shown, the first support component includes cylinders 14 arranged in an array on a base 131. The cylinders 14 are arranged vertically with their telescopic ends facing upward.

[0040] In some embodiments of the present invention, as Figure 3 and Figure 4 shown, the second support component includes a universal fine-tuning mechanism 16 arranged in the middle of the base 131 and flexible support mechanisms 15 arranged in an array around the universal fine-tuning mechanism 16 on the base 131. The height of each flexible support mechanism 15 can be adjusted separately.

[0041] In this invention, when cutting a planar workpiece, after the control system makes a selection, the flexible support mechanism 15 located around the universal fine adjustment mechanism 16 will retract and flatten, while the cylinder 14 on the base 131 will rise. Through the array of cylinders 14, each cylinder 14 is at the same height to effectively support the planar workpiece, so that the planar workpiece is placed flat on the flexible tooling 13.

[0042] When cutting a 3D workpiece, after the control system makes a selection, the cylinders 14 on the base 131 will be inoperable, that is, the telescopic ends of each cylinder 14 will be in a retracted state, which can prevent the cylinders 14 from colliding with the 3D workpiece. At the same time, the universal fine adjustment mechanism 16 in the middle part of the flexible fixture 13 supports the bottom arc surface of the 3D workpiece, realizing three degrees of freedom adjustment in front / back / left / right / rotation, ensuring that the 3D workpiece can be in a suitable position for cutting and processing. After the adjustment is completed, the flexible support mechanism 15 on the bottom side and edge of the flexible fixture 13 rises and contacts the lower surface of the 3D workpiece to support and fix the 3D workpiece. Depending on the appearance of the 3D workpiece, the extension length of the flexible support mechanism 15 of the fixture is different to ensure that it can adapt to various models of 3D workpieces.

[0043] By using the flexible tooling 13 of the present invention, the support and fixing time for planar workpieces can be reduced to no more than 3 minutes, and the clamping and fixing time for three-dimensional workpieces can be reduced to no more than 10 minutes, thereby effectively shortening the loading time and improving production efficiency.

[0044] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the base 131 can adopt a frame-type hollow structure or a flat structure, preferably a frame-type hollow structure, which has an array of cavities, and each cylinder 14 of the first support component and each flexible support mechanism 15 of the second support component can be installed in each cavity respectively.

[0045] In some embodiments of the present invention, in addition to using a cylinder 14 as a telescopic support structure, the first support component can also use a linear transmission structure such as an electric cylinder or a linear motor as a telescopic support structure. Those skilled in the art can make reasonable designs as needed.

[0046] In some embodiments of the present invention, the number and spacing of the cylinders 14 on the base 131 can be reasonably designed as needed to effectively support the flat workpiece and effectively control the cutting stress, and are not limited here.

[0047] In some embodiments of the present invention, the flexible support mechanism 15 may adopt a linear transmission structure-elastic support head structure. For example, the linear transmission structure is arranged vertically, and the elastic support head is set at the top of the linear transmission structure. The height of the elastic support head is adjusted by the linear transmission structure so that the elastic support head supports the curved workpiece. The linear transmission structure may adopt an electric push rod, a linear motor, etc.

[0048] Those skilled in the art can design the flexible support mechanism 15 as needed, and no limitations are set here.

[0049] For example, in some embodiments of the present invention, after the elastic support head contacts the curved workpiece, the electric push rod or linear motor of its linear transmission structure is automatically de-energized to end the stroke, thereby enabling the elastic support head to accurately support the curved workpiece; such as by controlling the automatic de-energization of the linear transmission structure through a contact-type limit switch or other switch structure.

[0050] In some embodiments of the present invention, the number and spacing of the flexible support mechanisms 15 on the base 131 can be reasonably designed as needed to cooperate with the universal fine adjustment mechanism 16 to effectively support the curved workpiece and effectively control the cutting stress, and are not limited here.

[0051] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 3 As shown, the universal fine-tuning mechanism 16 can adopt a circular ring support structure in conjunction with a ball joint motion pair and three sets of micro servo motors for drive and tilt sensor feedback to achieve closed-loop control of the controller. It can automatically complete the horizontal 360° rotation of the target component and the pitch / yaw attitude fine-tuning within a certain angle range of ±0.01mm. After it is in place, it can be automatically locked.

[0052] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 1 and Figures 5-8 As shown, the cutting equipment includes a carbon dioxide laser 2, an optical path structure, and a cutting head 3. The cutting head 3 is mounted on the A-axis and the B-axis, and the carbon dioxide laser 2 is connected to the cutting head 3 via the optical path structure.

[0053] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figures 5-8 As shown, the optical path structure includes a beam expander 7, a first total reflection mirror 8, a second total reflection mirror 9, a third total reflection mirror 10, and a fourth total reflection mirror 11 arranged sequentially from the carbon dioxide laser 2 to the cutting head 3; furthermore, a collimating mirror 22 is arranged between the carbon dioxide laser 2 and the beam expander 7, and a focusing mirror 23 is arranged between the fourth total reflection mirror 11 and the cutting head 3.

[0054] Among them, the carbon dioxide laser 2, the beam expander 7, and the first total reflection mirror 8 are connected by an optical path pipe or a flexible optical path protective cover 12, and the first total reflection mirror 8, the second total reflection mirror 9, and the third total reflection mirror 10 are connected by a flexible optical path protective cover 12.

[0055] The third total reflection mirror 10 and the fourth total reflection mirror 11 are installed on the cutting head 3, which enables the second total reflection mirror 9, the third total reflection mirror 10, and the fourth total reflection mirror 11 to move spatially along with the machine tool body 1. The second total reflection mirror 9 is installed on the uppermost side of the Z-axis 103. The laser generated by the carbon dioxide laser 2 is shaped by the beam expander 7 and then reflected by the first total reflection mirror 8, the second total reflection mirror 9, the third total reflection mirror 10, and the fourth total reflection mirror 11. After passing through the flexible optical path protective cover 12, the laser reaches the cutting head 3 and is emitted from the cutting head 3. The entire equipment adopts a closed optical path design, and the optical path corner adopts a flexible and adjustable sealed design, which can effectively avoid the contamination of the optical path lenses by dust and smoke, and the lens life is increased by 60% compared with conventional equipment.

[0056] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 1 As shown, the cutting equipment also includes a chiller 21. When the optical path system is running, the chiller 21 will continuously cool the carbon dioxide laser 2 to ensure that the carbon dioxide laser 2 can run continuously for a long time.

[0057] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 5 As shown, the cutting head 3 includes a cutting head body 31 and a cutting nozzle 32. The cutting nozzle 32 is installed with the cutting head body 31 by magnetic attraction and is equipped with a magnetic anti-collision device. When the cutting nozzle 32 collides, the cutting nozzle 32 will automatically fall off. At the same time, the magnetic anti-collision device will send a feedback signal to the operating system 18. The operating system 18 will control the machine tool body 1 and the cutting equipment to automatically stop running and issue an alarm prompt.

[0058] In some embodiments of the present invention, the cutting head body 31 is equipped with a pressure sensor. When the cutting head body 31 is involved in a collision, the pressure sensor can send a signal to the operating system 18 when it reaches a certain value. The operating system 18 then controls the machine tool body 1 and the cutting equipment to automatically stop running and issue an alarm.

[0059] In this embodiment, when the axes of the machine tool body 1 move in coordination, the cutting head 3 can be driven to move in three-dimensional space according to a predetermined trajectory. By equipping the cutting head 3 with a magnetic anti-collision device and a pressure sensor, dual protection can be formed, so that the cutting nozzle 32 will automatically detach from the cutting head body 31 when it is hit by a collision, and the machine tool body 1 and the cutting equipment will be shut down in time when the cutting nozzle 32 is hit by a collision or the cutting head body 31 is hit by a collision, so as to avoid further damage to the equipment due to rigid collision.

[0060] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 5 As shown, a distance sensor 20 for pointing to the cutting position is installed on the cutting equipment. The distance sensor 20 is used to provide real-time feedback on the distance between the cutting equipment and the workpiece surface when the intelligent laser cutting system is running the processing program. The operating system 18 adjusts the distance between the cutting equipment and the workpiece in real time based on the distance data fed back by the cutting equipment.

[0061] In this embodiment, when the laser cutting system is running the processing program, the distance sensor 20 that moves with the cutting head 3 can provide real-time feedback on the distance between the cutting head 3 and the workpiece surface. Based on the distance data fed back by the cutting head 3, the operating system 18 can adjust the distance between the cutting head 3 and the workpiece in real time (by moving the cutting head 3 on the Z-axis 103). This ensures that even if the workpiece undergoes slight deformation, the distance between the cutting head 3 and the workpiece remains constant, thus guaranteeing the processing effect and preventing the cutting head 3 from colliding with the workpiece.

[0062] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 1 and Figure 9 As shown, the intelligent laser cutting system also includes an automated guided vehicle (AGV) 17, on the top of which is a liftable support platform 171 for engaging with the bottom of the flexible tooling 13.

[0063] It should be understood that the flexible fixture 13 can be provided with support legs on both sides of the base 131. When the flexible fixture 13 is placed on the bottom surface, the bottom of the base 131 forms a cavity that runs through the front and back. When the support platform 171 is lowered, the height of the AGV is lower than the bottom surface of the flexible fixture 13, allowing the AGV to pass freely under the flexible fixture 13. When the support platform 171 is raised, the height of the AGV is higher than the flexible fixture 13, which can support the flexible fixture 13, allowing the flexible fixture 13 to be lifted off the ground. Then the AGV can drive the flexible fixture 13 to move.

[0064] In this invention, the liftable support platform 171 on the top of the automated guided vehicle 17 can be used to support the flexible tooling 13, thereby completing the transfer work, and the AGV and the flexible tooling 13 can be precisely docked.

[0065] In some embodiments of the present invention, the operating system 18 integrates an AGV signal interaction system. After the workpiece is clamped on top of the flexible fixture 13, when the automatic guided transport vehicle 17 moves to the designated position, the operating system 18 will send a signal to stop the automatic guided transport vehicle 17. At the same time, the automatic guided transport vehicle 17 raises the support platform 171 to support the flexible fixture 13, thereby enabling the flexible fixture 13 to move in and out of the machine tool body 1. This allows the flexible fixture 13, together with the workpiece, to be supported on the worktable of the Y-axis 102 of the machine tool body 1 at a set position, or to be moved off the worktable of the Y-axis 102. Through AGV interaction, the present invention can effectively reduce manual intervention in loading and unloading the flexible fixture 13, reducing the manual intervention time from 30 minutes to less than 5 minutes.

[0066] In some embodiments of the present invention, the operating system 18 is also equipped with offline programming software. The operating system 18 integrates offline programming functions and supports the automatic generation of cutting trajectories after importing IGES / STEP format models into the software. After the trajectory is optimized in the software, it can be further converted into NC program output, reducing the time for manual programming.

[0067] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 1 As shown, the intelligent laser cutting system also includes a protective cover 19 and a dust filtration system. The machine tool body 1 is located inside the protective cover 19, and the dust filtration system is connected to the protective cover 19.

[0068] Furthermore, the dust filtration system includes a fan 4, a water spray UV photo-oxidizer 5, and an activated carbon filter 6, which are connected in sequence to the protective cover 19 via pipes.

[0069] In this invention, when the intelligent laser cutting system starts working, the dust filtration system is activated. Fan 4 drives airflow, creating negative pressure within the protective cover 19. The air inside the protective cover 19 is purified and filtered through pipes by a water spray UV photo-oxidizer 5 and an activated carbon filter 6 before being released into the air. This invention's intelligent laser cutting system, through an integrated dual-layer dust removal system of a water spray UV photo-oxidizer 5 and an activated carbon filter 6, utilizes PP ball filtration, UV photolysis, and activated carbon filtration to control VOC emissions to 20 mg / m³. 3 Within.

[0070] In some embodiments of the present invention, the machine tool body 1 is completely covered by a protective cover 19. When the protective door on the protective cover 19 is opened, the entire intelligent laser cutting system cannot start the laser. When the protective door is closed and the system is in operation, the processing status can be observed in real time through the monitoring images transmitted by the camera set inside the protective cover 19 or on the machine tool body 1.

[0071] This embodiment also proposes a collaborative control method for the above-mentioned intelligent laser cutting system, which includes the following steps: 1) Depending on the workpiece model, select the first support component to clamp the flat workpiece or select the second support component to clamp the curved workpiece.

[0072] 2) Move the flexible fixture 13 along with the workpiece on it to the worktable of the Y-axis 102 of the machine tool body 1.

[0073] 3) Depending on the type of workpiece, the operating system 18 controls the machine tool body 1 to use the cutting equipment to cut the workpiece according to the set trajectory and set angle, and controls the machine tool body 1 to adjust the distance between the cutting equipment and the workpiece in real time until the workpiece is cut.

[0074] The collaborative control method of the above-mentioned intelligent laser cutting system will be further explained below with reference to specific embodiments.

[0075] Example 1 First, before placing the workpiece, select the flexible fixture model (planar workpiece or three-dimensional workpiece) through the control system and start the flexible fixture. The flexible fixture will automatically run the clamping preparation program according to the selected fixture model (planar workpiece or three-dimensional workpiece).

[0076] When the workpiece is a planar workpiece, the flexible support mechanism and universal fine-tuning mechanism on the flexible tooling will automatically avoid it, and at the same time the cylinder will rise to prepare to support the planar workpiece. At this time, the planar workpiece is placed on the cylinder by the overhead crane to complete the placement of the planar workpiece.

[0077] When the workpiece is a three-dimensional workpiece, the cylinder does not move. The three-dimensional workpiece is placed on the universal fine-tuning mechanism by the overhead crane. The three-dimensional workpiece is kept in the cutting posture in space by the rotation adjustment of the universal fine-tuning mechanism. At this time, the flexible support mechanism is activated, which supports the current posture of the three-dimensional workpiece and realizes the placement of the three-dimensional workpiece.

[0078] Once the workpiece is placed on the flexible fixture, the AGV's feeding program is started. The AGV will travel to the location of the flexible fixture according to the planned path. Upon arrival, the AGV support platform rises, supports the flexible fixture, and then automatically moves to the designated position inside the machine tool body according to the planned path. The AGV support platform then lowers, and the flexible fixture is placed on the Y-axis of the machine tool body. After the flexible fixture is placed, the AGV will move to the designated standby position according to the planned path, waiting for the next start.

[0079] By selecting the corresponding processing program on the operating system panel and starting it, the safety door of the protective cover falls, creating a relatively sealed space in the processing area. At the same time, the axes of the machine tool body begin to move in coordination, the carbon dioxide laser starts running, and the emitted laser beam is shaped by the beam expander along the optical path. After passing through the first total reflection mirror, the second total reflection mirror, the third total reflection mirror, and the fourth total reflection mirror, the laser beam is emitted through the cutting head. During the laser delivery process, the entire optical path is sealed and protected by a flexible protective cover to prevent external dust from contaminating the optical path.

[0080] Afterwards, the laser emitted by the carbon dioxide laser is irradiated by the cutting head and processed according to the machine tool's main running trajectory. At the same time, the fan is started to draw air from inside the protective cover to extract the fumes generated during the processing. After being treated by a water spray UV photooxidizer and an activated carbon filter, the gas that meets the emission conditions is released into the atmosphere.

[0081] After the workpiece is processed, all axes of the machine tool body return to the standby position, the safety door of the protective cover opens, and the AGV's unloading program is started. The AGV will travel to the designated position inside the machine tool body according to the planned path. Upon arrival, the AGV support platform rises, supports the flexible fixture, and automatically moves to the flexible fixture unloading position according to the planned path. After arrival, the AGV support platform falls, the flexible fixture is placed stably, and the AGV moves to the designated standby position according to the planned path, waiting for the next start.

[0082] By following the above steps, a complete machining process for the workpiece is completed.

[0083] In this invention, compared with the traditional process of cutting large-format, thick transparent non-metallic materials, the loading and unloading time is reduced from 30 minutes to 5 minutes, the repeatability positioning accuracy is improved from the traditional ±15mm to ±0.05mm (X-axis, Y-axis, Z-axis), and VOC emissions are greatly controlled, from the current lack of effective dust removal control to less than 20mg / m³. 3 Meanwhile, the equipment compatibility is improved, realizing the universality of planar / three-dimensional multi-model workpieces. Compared with the cracking and low smoothness problems caused by manual cutting / water cutting, the present invention achieves better cutting effect through laser cutting, with a smooth cut surface and no cracks.

[0084] Based on the needs of actual work scenarios, this invention creatively proposes an intelligent laser cutting system and collaborative control method based on a three-dimensional five-axis CNC machine tool. This structural approach and technical path fully consider the convenience, efficiency, and advanced nature of this type of workpiece operation. The work scenarios covered by this invention fully consider the integration with automated production lines, allowing it to be incorporated into the unit's digital production line as an automated cutting unit. This solution has a wide range of application scenarios. Considering the diverse types and complex shapes of this type of workpiece, this invention creatively proposes a flexible fixture for rapid workpiece positioning and a cutting trajectory follow-up system for online processing path adjustment. Furthermore, in situations where the flexible fixture space is limited, configuring multiple support components as work platforms for different types of workpieces expands the equipment's scope of application and increases its processing capacity.

[0085] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention, but the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. An intelligent laser cutting system, characterized in that, This includes the machine tool body, cutting equipment, flexible tooling, and operating system; The machine tool body is equipped with an X-axis, Y-axis, Z-axis, A-axis, and B-axis. The Z-axis is slidably mounted on the moving part of the X-axis. The cutting device is assembled to the moving end of the Z-axis via the A-axis and the B-axis. The flexible fixture is supported on the worktable of the Y-axis. The flexible fixture includes a base and a first support component located on the top of the base for supporting flat workpieces and a second support component for supporting curved workpieces. The X-axis is used to drive the Z-axis to move horizontally, the Y-axis is used to drive the flexible tooling to move vertically, the Z-axis is used to drive the A-axis, the B-axis and the cutting device to move vertically, the A-axis is used to drive the cutting device to rotate around the X-axis, and the B-axis is used to drive the cutting device to rotate around the Y-axis. The operating system can control the machine tool body to use the cutting equipment to cut the workpiece according to the workpiece type and the set trajectory and angle. The operating system can also control the machine tool body to adjust the distance between the cutting equipment and the workpiece in real time.

2. The intelligent laser cutting system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first support component includes cylinders arranged in an array on the base, the cylinders being arranged vertically with their telescopic ends facing upwards.

3. The intelligent laser cutting system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second support component includes a universal fine-tuning mechanism disposed in the middle of the base and a flexible support mechanism arranged on the base around the universal fine-tuning mechanism in an array, the height of each of the flexible support mechanisms being adjustable.

4. The intelligent laser cutting system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cutting equipment includes a carbon dioxide laser, an optical path structure, and a cutting head. The cutting head is mounted on the A-axis and the B-axis, and the carbon dioxide laser is connected to the cutting head via the optical path structure.

5. The intelligent laser cutting system according to claim 4, characterized in that, The cutting head includes a cutting head body and a cutting nozzle. The cutting nozzle is magnetically attached to the cutting head body and equipped with a magnetic anti-collision device. When the cutting nozzle collides with the cutting head body, the cutting nozzle automatically detaches. At the same time, the magnetic anti-collision device sends a feedback signal to the operating system, which then controls the machine tool body and the cutting equipment to automatically stop running and issue an alarm.

6. The intelligent laser cutting system according to claim 5, characterized in that, The cutting head body is equipped with a pressure sensor. When the cutting head body is involved in a collision, the pressure sensor can send a signal to the operating system when it reaches a certain value. The operating system then controls the machine tool body and the cutting equipment to automatically stop running and issue an alarm.

7. The intelligent laser cutting system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The cutting equipment is equipped with a distance sensor for pointing to the cutting position. The distance sensor is used to provide real-time feedback on the distance between the cutting equipment and the workpiece surface when the intelligent laser cutting system is running the processing program. The operating system adjusts the distance between the cutting equipment and the workpiece in real time based on the distance data fed back by the cutting equipment.

8. The intelligent laser cutting system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, It also includes an automated guided vehicle, the top of which has a liftable support platform for engaging with the bottom of the flexible tooling.

9. The intelligent laser cutting system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, It also includes a protective cover and a dust filtration system, with the machine tool body located inside the protective cover and the dust filtration system connected to the protective cover.

10. A collaborative control method for an intelligent laser cutting system as described in any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: Depending on the workpiece model, select the first support assembly to clamp the flat workpiece or select the second support assembly to clamp the curved workpiece. Move the flexible tooling along with the workpiece on it onto the Y-axis worktable of the machine tool body; Depending on the type of workpiece, the operating system controls the machine tool body to use the cutting equipment to cut the workpiece according to the set trajectory and angle, and controls the machine tool body to adjust the distance between the cutting equipment and the workpiece in real time until the workpiece is cut.

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